Saved one, think gratefully about this mandate of mercy. Notice the majesty in God's command. In our text, we see a sinner with only sin, expecting only wrath. The eternal Lord passes by in His glory, looks, pauses, and speaks a single but royal word: "Live." There speaks our God. Who else could give life with a single word?

This command holds much. When He says, "Live," it means many things. It's judicial life. The sinner stands ready for condemnation, but the Almighty says, "Live," and he rises pardoned and forgiven. It's spiritual life. We once didn't know Jesus—our eyes couldn't see Him, our ears didn't hear His voice. Jehovah said, "Live," and though we were dead in sin, we were given life.

It also promises glory-life, the perfection of spiritual life. "I said to you, Live." This word carries through time until death comes, yet even then the Lord's voice says, "Live!" In the resurrection morning, that same voice declares "Live," as holy spirits rise to heaven, blessed forever in God's glory, still carried by this command. Notice this order is irresistible.

Saul of Tarsus journeys to Damascus to arrest believers. A heavenly voice and blinding light transform him, and Saul cries, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" This command is one of free grace. Sinners are saved only because God chooses to magnify His free, unearned grace. Christians, know your place as debtors to grace. Show gratitude by living earnest, Christlike lives. As God has commanded you to live, make sure you live wholeheartedly.